A study conducted by CU Boulder reveals that book bans are a form of political action rather than censorship, primarily targeting women of color. The study analyzed the removal of 2,532 books during the 2021-22 school year, which saw a significant increase in book bans compared to previous years. The research suggests that these bans are aimed at galvanizing voters in conservative counties that are experiencing a decline in Republican majorities. The study found that over half of the banned books were children's books featuring historical figures and diverse characters, including LGBTQ+ and people of color. Authors of color, particularly women of color who often write children's books with diverse characters, were 4.5 times more likely to be banned than white authors. Interestingly, the bans did not lead to increased interest in the books, as many of the banned titles were not popular and did not experience a surge in sales or online searches. This study sheds light on the underlying motivations behind book bans and their impact on marginalized authors and communities. [0d15c599]
Since 2020, over 100 Wisconsin school districts, or 1 in 4, have received inquiries or formal requests to remove books from their libraries. Many of these requests came from organized conservative groups and politicians rather than concerned parents. The most challenged books include 'Gender Queer' by Maia Kobabe, 'The Bluest Eye,' 'The Kite Runner,' and 'Slaughterhouse-Five.' The requests targeted books with LGBTQ+ topics, sexual explicitness, profanity, violence, and racially charged content. The book 'Gender Queer' received the most challenges and concerns in the state. The majority of removal requests and concerns came from a small group of 'super requesters' affiliated with conservative groups. Wisconsin, along with Pennsylvania and Michigan, is considered a hotbed of book challenges as partisan actors use these tactics to energize their base. The records obtained from Wisconsin school districts revealed a culture of hostility and division surrounding book-banning efforts, with district administrators and library specialists facing personal threats and increased job responsibilities. The removals and restrictions affected 127 book titles, with most taking place in southeast Wisconsin districts. Conservative media and social media played a role in fueling book ban requests, and conservative groups such as Moms for Liberty and No Left Turn in Education were among the largest requesters. The targeted books often explored LGBTQ+ and racial themes, and critics claimed they promoted liberal bias and anti-Christian values. The book 'Gender Queer' drew the most challenges and concerns, with requesters alleging it aimed to indoctrinate children and promote pedophilia. Wisconsin is considered one of the most dangerous states for book bans, with experts warning that efforts to ban books could change policy at the local level. The emotional toll of these book challenges on librarians and educators is significant, with many experiencing distress and leaving the profession early. [2a9506f0]
Books about disability are also popular targets for book banning in Wisconsin schools. In the 2022-2023 school year, books about health and wellbeing, including disability, were the second most frequently banned in schools. Disability Pride Month in July highlights the censorship and erasure faced by disabled people. The Americans With Disabilities Act, which provides protections for disabled people, is at risk of being overturned. The banning of books with disability themes is part of a larger pattern of attacks on diverse voices and marginalized groups. A sample of disability-forward books targeted by censors includes 'Al Capone Does My Shirts' by Gennifer Choldenko, 'The Fault in Our Stars' by John Green, and 'Wonder Woman: Warbringer' by Leigh Bardugo. Recent book bans include 5 books in the Katy Independent School District, 30 books in Cobb County Schools, and the removal of references to 'climate change' in some middle school textbooks. Tennessee has passed a new book ban law with provisions similar to Idaho's. Harford School District in Maryland has banned 'A Court of Mist and Fury'. Franklin County Schools in Virginia are considering making it easier to ban books. Carroll County, Maryland, parents are trying to get banned books unbanned. The Metropolis Public Library in Illinois is recovering from a bomb threat. The Oklahoma history curriculum is being rewritten by those behind Project 2025. The King William public library in Virginia has left a regional library system due to concerns about 'inappropriate books'. The Mat-Su School District in Alaska has banned/restricted four more books, including 'The Handmaid's Tale' graphic novel. South Carolina public and school libraries are subject to a draconian proviso in the state budget. [78d10cef]